The word "crab apple" is spelled using the IPA phonetic transcription as [kræb ˈæpl]. The first syllable, "crab," is pronounced with a short vowel sound /æ/, followed by a voiced consonant /b/. The second syllable, "apple," is pronounced with a long vowel sound /eɪ/, followed by an unvoiced consonant /p/. The term "crab" refers to the small and sour apples that have a hard and woody texture. The term "apple" is the common name for the fruit of the Malus genus.
A crab apple refers to a type of small, tart, and often sour apple that grows on the tree with the botanical name Malus. This deciduous tree is typically found in temperate regions and is widely cultivated for its ornamental value as well as for its fruit. The crab apple tree is known for its small stature, reaching heights of up to 8 meters (26 feet).
The fruits, also called crab apples, are typically round or oblong in shape, with a diameter ranging from 1 to 4 centimeters (0.4 to 1.6 inches). They come in a variety of colors, including shades of green, yellow, and red. The skin of a crab apple is often smooth but can sometimes be slightly fuzzy. The flesh is firm and crisp, and the flavor is typically quite sharp and tangy, with a notable acidity.
While crab apples are not typically consumed fresh due to their sour taste, they are commonly used in various culinary applications. They are frequently used in making jellies, jams, sauces, and preserves due to their high pectin content. Additionally, their tartness makes them a great addition to desserts, such as pies and crumbles. In the horticultural world, crab apple trees are often valued for their beautiful blossoms and are used as ornamental trees in gardens and landscapes.
The word "crab apple" originated from the Old English word "crabba" or "crabbe", which referred to the sour or tart taste of the fruit. The word "apple" was added to indicate that it belongs to the apple family. The term "crab" was used to describe any small or sour fruit in Old English, and over time, it became specifically associated with a particular genus of wild apples, Malus.